Starting August 1, a new anti-drug education subject will be introduced in Punjab’s government schools, as part of the state government's special initiative "War Against Drugs". This move is being hailed as a strong grassroots-level step under Punjab's broader mission to create a drug-free society.
The announcement was made by Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains, who handles the Departments of Education and Information & Public Relations, while addressing a large and impactful gathering during the anti-drug seminar organized by the Electronic Media Press Club at the School of Eminence in Nangal.
Minister Bains emphasized that the “War Against Drugs” campaign has received wholehearted support from the press fraternity, who have played a critical role in taking the government’s efforts to the people. He acknowledged the media as the “fourth pillar” of democracy and an essential medium for communicating the government's performance and messages to the public in an accessible manner.
During the event, he announced the construction of a 500-seat auditorium at the government school in Nangal. He also highlighted that an all-season swimming pool is already under construction at the school. The introduction of anti-drug curriculum in schools, he said, will help spread awareness to every household, ensuring the message of a drug-free Punjab reaches all corners.
Minister Bains praised the drawing competitions and cultural performances held during the event and thanked local social workers for their continuous support in previous anti-drug campaigns. On this occasion, individuals who have raised their voices against drug abuse and contributed positively to society were specially honored. He congratulated the organizers of the event and thanked them for their significant contributions.
Also present at the seminar, DIG Rupnagar Range Harcharan Singh Bhullar and SSP Gulneet Singh Khurana affirmed that the Punjab Government is working intensively to eliminate drug abuse from its roots. Drug traffickers are being jailed, supply chains are being dismantled, properties amassed through drug money are being demolished, and patients are being admitted to de-addiction centers for treatment. They urged the public to support this mission by fearlessly sharing information about drug traffickers with the police.
Students from local schools also took a pledge to work towards building a drug-free society. The success of the seminar was celebrated widely, with congratulatory messages coming in from electronic media members, local residents, print media representatives, and community organization leaders.